St James Secures £151,000 Funding for 2025 Following Late Agreement

A deal was also done to develop a sustainable plan for St James, including a service level agreement for future funding clarity.

St James Secures £151,000 Funding for 2025 Following Late Agreement
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St James Secures 151000 Funding for 2025 Following Late Agreement
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  • St James will receive a one-off payment of £151,000 from a reserve as part of the 2025 Budget.
  • The funding results from collaboration between Education, Sport & Culture and the Policy & Resources Committee.
  • A deal was also done to develop a sustainable plan for St James, including a service level agreement for future funding clarity.
  • The agreement led to the withdrawal of two amendments to the Budget debate, ensuring no States debate on St James funding next year.
  • Statements from Deputy Andrea Dudley-Owen and Merise Wheatley highlight the importance of St James as a cultural asset and their commitment to its long-term viability.

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St James has been granted a one-off funding payment of £151,000 for 2025, aimed at supporting its continued operation.

This funding agreement is the result of collaborative efforts between Education, Sport & Culture and the Policy & Resources Committee.

The funding agreement entails not just immediate financial support but also a commitment to establishing a sustainable future for St James.

It was resolved that ESC will collaborate closely with St James' management with the goal of developing a long-term business plan.

This plan aims to place St James on a more financially secure foundation, ensuring its role as a cultural hub is preserved for future generations.

Additionally, a service level agreement is to be set up as a component of these plans, aiming to provide a clearer framework for funding in future budgets.

This financial solution facilitated the withdrawal of two Budget debate amendments that sought to secure immediate funding for St James.

ESC President Deputy Andrea Dudley-Owen expressed gratitude for the collaborative approach to resolving St James' funding issue, emphasising the need for a sustainable business model that secures St James' operational stability and cultural contribution for the long term.

Merise Wheatley, President of St James, also acknowledged the support from the Policy & Resources Committee, viewing it as an endorsement of St James' value to the community.

Both expressed a commitment to work towards transforming St James into a vibrant and enduring cultural resource.